Sipes Spot

The funniest thing I have heard Reese say

2011-12-22T19:49:00.000-08:00

Today I was driving, taking gifts around, I had all three kids with me. We were trying to find Riley's karate teachers house. I knew the area she lived but I didn't know which house was hers. I did however know what her car looked like, so I knew if I found her car I would find her house. We turned down a road and Reese said "what are we doing here?" I said to all the kids, "keep your eyes peeled for ______ car." Reese started crying and screaming "I don't want to get my eyes peeled." Oh my goodness I started laughing so hard. Then Riley started laughing. Then she was mad that we were laughing at her because she had to get her eyes peeled. OH MY!! Later that day we were at Ninna's and she leaned over to me and said, "mom we don't really have to get our eyes peeled do we?" Oh baby girl that is just TOO much.

Polar Express

2011-12-21T11:47:00.000-08:00

The kids with THE KING!! Raegan is in love with Elvis and I have NO IDEA why. This was outside of a restaurant in Williams AZ. We were waiting to meet up with our good friends the Scussels.

Another shop--my kids are so cute.

Every year we say we are going to take our kids on the Polar Express in Williams. This year we REALLY did take them and it was a great experience. Riley and Raegan

Riley and Raegan with Mrs. Clause. She was soooo nice. The kids could write letters to Santa and do some fun crafts. Notice Reese in none of these pictures? She REFUSED to even stand by Mrs. Clause. She kept saying she didn't want to ride the train. She wanted to watch us all from OUTSIDE of the train--BY HERSELF!! Stinker!

They had this cool little model town with the train riding around.

Us with our amazing friends--Chad and Cassie and their cuties. It was fun to go with our friends. Jessica, Caleb, and Justin wore their PJ's which was so fun. I knew my kids would not do it. The adults were joking we all should have worn matching PJ's. HA yeah right.

Waiting patiently for the train. It was pretty cold.

Russ and Reese--see she FINALLY smiled and was happy when the train was actually going and she knew she was OK. Love these faces.

They had the HELPERS dressed up and they passed out THE BIGGEST cookies ever, and hot chocolate. The cookies were so good and the hot chocolate was the perfect-drinkable temperature.

Raegan was SO HAPPY and SO EXCITED when we FINALLY told the kids (on our way there) where we were. She had a perma-grim the rest of the time. She kept saying "this isn't the REAL Polar Express, that's not the REAL North Pole, that doesn't look like the REAL Santa." UMMM

Reese and Raegan so happy.

Me and Russ

This picture is all the kids pressed up against the window looking at the North Pole. They had a whole little village set up with houses and trees--everything lite up in lights. Santa was there with his sleigh and reindeer.

And then Santa got ON the train and came and talked to the kids. He gave them all a bell.

On the train we played games and sang Christmas songs. They read the Polar Express book. I hope my kids will have this good memory for a long time. Merry Christmas.

Christmas programs 2011

2011-12-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

Here is Raegan at her Christmas program. She was the cutest girl in first grade. I wasn't able to get any good shots or video of her. It was packed and I sat in the wrong spot. I really didn't see her much during the program.

You can barely see my Riley back there. Russ and I were out of town on the day of Riley's program. I was able to go to one of the practices just to see parts of it. He got to ring the bells during one song. He is not much into singing or performing as you can see from his face.

Reesie's little joy school class did a nativity program for the families. It was really sweet. Reese was Mary but you can't tell from her Hannah Montana get up. She REFUSED to wear her costume from day one. Stubborn little cuss. Thanks Miss Cassie for helping the kids do this--it was great.

Dance recital Nov 2011

2011-12-07T14:53:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness!! My girls are SOOO SOOOO cute. They were the cutest girls at the performance.

Rae took a cheer class this year and she LOVES it. She wants to cheer at a game sometime. We will see how that pans out. She is a little natural and has always loved dancing. We love to watch her.

My little Reesie was such a sweet little ballerina. ADORABLE!!

This was her first ever dance class and first recital. We couldn't believe how well she did that night. She never did really good at practices. But that night she owed the stage. She went right out and did all the moves.

She wants to do RECITAL all the time now. I hope she likes it enough to keep going.

It's fun to see my kids growing and being more involved in things. It's good to see what each one is good at and NOT SO GOOD AT!!

Piano recital

2011-12-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

Raegan with Sister Sanderson. This is Raegan's first recital.

Riley with his piano teacher--Sister Sanderson. He is doing well with piano but he needs to practice more. I hope he will stick to it. Some days are better than others.

Raegan has really liked playing the piano. She picked it up really quickly. She too needs to practice more. I hope this is something both kids continue to do.

Halloween

2011-12-06T15:02:00.000-08:00

Raegan did her pumpkin all by herself this year. She did a really great job. See her consentrating?

Riley has NEVER liked cleaning out the pumpkin guts. He thinks it's gross. His face says it all.

Sweet little Ninna. Always has fun being with the kids.

OK so my face is silly but REALLY Reesie's pumpkin was petrified and IMPOSSIBLE to carve. It was like cutting into a peice a tree. She was completly happy with one hole for an eye.

Finished pumpkins.

New family pictures

2011-11-14T08:37:00.000-08:00

We just had our family pictures taken by my friend Brianna Brimhall. She did an amazing job with what she had to work with HAHA. I love them. I'm super excited to share them and FINALLY have a good family picture. I think our last picture was when Randal was still here and Reese was 6 months old. YIKES!! Looking at these I realize just how big my kids are getting. Riley will be a teenager before I know it. They are darn cute kids though. Thanks Bri.

Reesie the ballerina

2011-10-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

Reese is so dang funny. She just started taking a dlance class (this is how she says it). She is taking tap and ballet. She wasn't so sure the very first day if she would like it. I had to FORCE her to go and then pry her off of me and run while her teacher held her. BUT that only lasted 15 mins. She is defiantly my fraddy cat and so worried about almost everything. She is not willing to try new things. BUT once she does and finds that she actually LIKES these things there is no stopping her. She is very stubborn. But now she looks forward to dlance class all week. Her teacher is great (Thanks Miss Jill) and she even has some little friends that are in her class.

Reese and the pumpquin patch

2011-10-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

Joy school friends

Reese and her perfect pumpquin (this is how Reese says pumpkin).

Riding in the wagon with little red faces.

Reese and her joy school friends went on a field trip to the Willis Farm's pumpkin patch. They thought it was so great. And it was. They got to go on a walk threw the corn maze. We have never done that so I thought that was pretty fun. They had to find the corn that had different colored ribbons on them. Once they found that color we read on our paper a cool farm fact and then they had to act out something. Super cute. Then they all found their perfect pumpkins. They are so cute and get so excited about such simple things. Oh to be a child again.

CoUsIn TiMe

2011-10-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

Molly and the kids. Reese, Raegan, Riley and Aleigh

COUSINS

Handsome little man Koleiar

Sol and Koleiar
We just got back from a quick trip to Utah. Our favorite little Koleiar got baptized on October 8th. We are so proud of him, and very glad we got to go. Ninna was a lifesaver and rode with me so I didn't have to go by myself. His favorite aunt Marcie gave a talk on The Holy Ghost. I compared the Holy Ghost to a stop light. It was a great experience and one I hope every one will remember. It was so great to spend a few hours with my family and get to visit. We love you Koleiar.

Reagan's flag ceremony

2011-10-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

Boy scout Riley got to lead the flag ceremony. Doesn't he look so cute in his uniform?

Last week Raegan's 1st grade class was in charge of doing the flag ceremony for the school. They all wore red, white, and blue clothes. They all looked so festive. Raegan's teacher asked if any one knew a boy scout that could lead the flag. Raegan was eager to suggest her brother. Riley has never done a flag ceremony solo. He got to lead the flag out and lead everyone in the pledge of allegiance. He did such a great job. It made me a little weepy to hear him. Then Raegan's class sang God Bless America. It makes me so happy to live in a place where they still FAITHFULLY say the pledge and teach our children about GOD and America. It was touching.

A MUCH needed craft--menu board

2011-09-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have had an idea for a menu board in my head forever. My mom bought me this cute magnet board and I KNEW I had to use it for my menus. I LOVE how it turned out. I have not done a craft in a super long time so it was nice to do something. It is so nice to have too. I have a HARD time at the end of the day to be motivated to THINK of something to make for dinner. NOW I already know and I have all the stuff ahead of time. It's pretty wonderful.

The WOLF pack

2011-09-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

The whole gang

My Riley started scouts--I KNOW CRAZY!! I NEVER thought I would be at a place in my life where I had a kid in scouts. He is actually one of the only wolfs. But they do combine two groups so he has friends to go with. He surprisingly has done really well at scouts. He gets excited every time he has a meeting and gets to do cool stuff. He has WONDERFUL leaders and I am so grateful to them for working with him. Heaven knows I have NO CLUE about scouts and his leaders just step right up. This last week they met at Brother and Sister Silverhorn's house and worked on their bikes. Then they all took a bike ride together. I was happy to have snapped a few pictures.

Karate

2011-09-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

Riley is doing karate this year. He started during the summer and has enjoyed it so much that he chose to do it during school too. He really loves it. His teacher is great with him and it has really helped with his confidence. Tomorrow he is testing for his yellow belt. Right now he has his yellow stripe belt and he started with a white belt. Way to go buddy.

Reese starts Joy School

2011-09-26T20:57:00.000-07:00

Such a big girl

Reese with her Joy School friends

I decided to do Joy School with Reese this year. I don't know if it's because she is my youngest but I had a hard time feeling like she was ready for REAL pre-school. I have to say that I'm pretty impressed with this program. We have 7 kids and they are all around the same age. She was SOOO very excited to get to start school. She STILL loves every day that is a joy school day. She has been going for about a month now and I can already tell a difference in her. She is speaking much more clearly. She can identify her special letter R. She is writing R's and e's. She has even a couple of times written her full name (it is only 3 different letters but hey she did it). She loves her friends and all of her teachers. I can't believe my baby is going to school . I love you Reesie Mae. You are so smart.

Diamond backs game

2011-09-26T20:46:00.000-07:00

Notice how red the kid's faces are. We were all sweaty waiting in line to get in.

Reesie's favorite part of the whole day was she got HER VERY OWN VERY FIRST bobble head.

For Russ's birthday we got him Diamond Backs tickets. This is something that Russ really enjoys. We also like going as a family. Ninna came with us and our friends the Scussel's met us there. It was a lot of fun. A nice way to get out of town. It was a night game and they played the Padres. D-Backs won so that was nice too. It WAS SOOO HOT in the valley. Luckily, they had the roof closed and the AC on. Happy Birthday Russ. We love you.

First day of school 2011

2011-08-11T13:37:00.000-07:00

WOW I can't believe how big my kids are. Riley is going to 3rd grade this year---THIRD!!! He is getting so tall. Why does it have to go so fast. His teacher this year is Mrs. Bradshaw. She seems very nice and I hope he loves her and his class. He was VERY nervous about going back to school. But when I dropped him off after finding his desk he said, "bye, see you later." Such a brave boy.

Raegan is going into 1st grade. Her teacher is Mrs. Taylor (same that Riley had for 1st). We really liked her and Raegan was bouncing off the walls with excitement. She had the count down going for months, weeks, days. FINALLY it came. She was awake (by herself) at 6:45. When I dropped her off in her class I thought she would just kick me out the door and be fine. WELL, as I was getting ready to leave she came up to me with tear filled eyes and said, "do you have to leave me mommy?" OH MAN!! Not what I expected. I about lost it. But I stayed strong and just said "yes the mommies have to leave. You'll be just fine."

Every year when school starts I am always SOOOO ready for it. Then the day it happens I realize it's way harder than I think. Raegan will be gone all day and Reese and I realize today how much we miss her and Riley. I hope that the first day is the best ever. (I'll find out in about 1 hour).

Riley gets baptized

2011-07-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

Grandpa and a few of the girls. He's so cute. And so are the girls.

Raegan and Aleigh. We were teasing that they look like twins. We couldn't tell them apart most of the time.

Riley and the boys. Uncle Jesse, cousin Justin, uncle Sol, daddy, and grandpa. Grandpa Mike is missing from ALL the pictures. Stinker.

Everyone. Wow that's a lot of people.

Our family. Reese was being silly. Oh wait Raegan too.

The two most handsome boys ever. Love my boys.

Riley and cousin Koleiar. Little trouble makers when they are together. But they love each other so much.

Me and my handsome little man.

Me and two of my sisters. Rebecca and Kaylee.

Me and my dad and step-mom Deb.

What a wonderful time for our family. We are so proud that Riley chose to be baptized. What a huge blessing in his life. He is defiantly ready and able to be the kind of boy Heavenly Father wants him to be. We were very blessed to have so many family and friends there with us. The day was pretty perfect. The week before the baptism Russ and I got to go to Vegas for a police training. It was SOOOO nice to get away. My dad and step-mom came the whole week and stayed with my kids. It was so wonderful to have them here. My kids had a blast and made some great memories. Thanks guys. Then on Thurs. my mom and step-dad Mike came and my little sister Kaylee. On Friday my sister Rebecca and her family came. Also, Russel's sister Robin and her family, and Krystal and Justin, Ninna, Hannah, and Molly. Yes we had a house full, and it was awesome. THANK YOU everyone. Others that I want to remember were there are The Larsons, The Ellisons, The Silverhorns, Sue Smith, Paula Vangeesen, The Hoyts, Chad Scussel, The Hollands, The Rencher girls, The Jeppesen's, Brother Barin, it really meant a lot that you were all there.

Raegan graduates kindergarten

2011-07-07T08:20:00.000-07:00

Raegan and her friends. This was the day before graduation. Track and field day.

Beautiful girl. Dang I miss her long hair.

Singing her songs.

Raegan and her teacher Mrs. Slade.

Raegan and Mrs. Burton. The calss helper.

Raegan is so excited to be going to 1st grade. She got Mrs. Taylor (same teache Riley had for 1st grade). She had wonderful teachers this year. She really learned and grew this year in Kindergarten. We are proud of her. She got into all the clubs like ABC, 100, and sight words. She loved going and being with her friends and chasing boys at recess. She is a very sweet and likable girl. We love you Rae.

Raegan

2011-07-07T08:04:00.000-07:00

Riley's baptism photo shoot

2011-05-19T08:59:00.001-07:00

On Sunday we took Riley to the temple to take some pictures for his baptism announcements. I had 3 pictures I could choose from. It was REALLY hard to choose which ones were the cutest. Dang he's a handsome boy. I can't hardly believe that he is turning 8 in a couple of weeks. He is VERY excited to get baptized. We are so proud of him. His announcements are done and I should get them in the mail this week. I'll post a picture to show which pictures I chose.

6 years of Raegan

2011-05-14T16:36:00.001-07:00

Raegan's 6th birthday

2011-05-14T14:13:00.001-07:00

Raegan wanted a rainbow birthday this year. Here are her invitations.

The night before her birthday she lost her second tooth. She was thrilled. Notice her top one STILL hasn't grown back yet.

Here she is opening her morning present. It was a gift from her aunt Becca which she LOVED!! That bag is sooo cute. She had put note pads, markers, lip gloss, and tic-tacs in it. GREAT IDEA!! Thanks auntie.

It was fun to decorate with a rainbow theme. LOTS of fun colors.

OK SOOOOO the cake was a disaster. I had a vision in my head. 6 layer, round, each layer a different color of the rainbow, BEAUTIFUL. Well I got my first 2 colors out of the oven and put the next 2 colors into the oven. As I tipped the cake upside down to get it out of the pan---BOTH CAKES COMPLETELY CRUMBLED!!! NICE!!

So my friend Sarah came to the rescue. She suggested doing cake balls. So we just mashed up the cake and melted the frosting then mixed them together. We shaped them into bite size balls. It was a great save. I think the girls liked being able to eat them with their hands.

She invited about 12 girls and all but one came. They had a lot of fun. YES there was some drama BUT for the most part everyone was happy. We played some game like heads up 7-up, button button who has the button, and a relay race.

Raegan and her friend Lyndsey

See how happy she is that it's her birthday??

Blowing out the candles. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEAUTIFUL RAEGAN!!

Mother's Day Luau 2011

2011-05-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

This year I got to go to the Mother's Day Luau with Raegan. I did this with Riley when he was in kindergarten. The teachers do a really good job. It is nice to get one-on-one time with the kids. It doesn't happen very often. Raegan has talked about the Luau ALL week. She was most excited to serve me cake and juice. The kids sang two Hawaiian songs and did the limbo. She made it to round 3 in the limbo but then her head just touched the pole. DARN IT!! It was a fun night. Thank you Raegan and teachers!!

The Q-tip Queen

2011-05-06T14:18:00.001-07:00

My Reesie is such a funny little girl. Her obsession with Q-tips started out cute and kind of funny. But NOW UGH!! She NEEDS them all the time. I don't even realize when she gets them. She can find them and get to them whenever she wants one. Today I took her to the park and as she was sitting there playing in the dirt she handed me a Q-tip to hold so she wouldn't get it dirty. REALLY!! I was thinking it was getting better but I guess I'm just in denial. When we got home from the park she was throwing a fit because she didn't want to go home. I went to talk to Russ and we noticed it got REALLY quiet. I went on the search and found her peacefully sleeping in her new big girl bed. She doesn't sleep in this bed EVER so to see that she had put herself in there was pretty good. Notice the bathroom cup filled with Q-tips next to her. What a crazy girl.

Anything card

2011-05-02T16:51:00.000-07:00

Row your boat

2011-04-29T15:43:00.000-07:00

Riley is doing so great at piano. He actually really likes it. He has stuck to it and is improving all time. He had his second recital last night. HUGE improvement from last time. The songs he played were Surprise Symphony and Row Row Row Your Boat. He even memorized Row Your Boat. Good job buddy. We are so proud of him.

Reesie's 3rd Birthday!!

2011-04-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

Reese was SO excited for her birthday this year. She had been talking about it for months. Every time we would make something in the kitchen she wanted to know if we were making her birthday party. She would often be heard singing "OH YEAH OH YEAH it's my birthday." I think the thing she was MOST excited for was her birthday cake. She couldn't stop talking about it. FINALLY the day came. We headed to Basha's and straight to the bakery. We flipped threw the book of cakes. There it was Dora Princess. It took her two seconds to decide and she never changed her mind not once.

Her Dora invites that mom made

Her morning present--dress up shoes

YAY balloons

THE CAKE

She had a little party with like 4 of her friends. She was thrilled they all came just for her. They colored pictures.

Just toooo cute

Blowing out the candle

Eating the frosting

Hannah and Reese

Ninna and Reese

Daddy and Reese

Mommy and Reese

She LOVED opening her presents. She got a computer from mom and dad.

She was so sweet to hug her friends and say thank you when she was done.

She got a Tangled doll from Hannah and new dress up dresses from Ninna.

The weather was great so we did bubbles outside and played games. Her favorite is duck duck goose. We also did London bridges.

We were all excited for her. It was sweet to watch her be so excited. I love this age because they start to remember things and understand more. She had a great day. Thanks to everyone who came by, sent cards, and called it really meant a lot to her.

California March 2011

2011-04-20T20:22:00.001-07:00

While we were in California for Spring Break we tried to do a few fun things with the kids. It rain almost the entire time we were there. The kids had fun just playing in grandma's yard. They found TONS of snails. They also enjoyed PLAYING AND PLAYING with cousins.
Raegan in grandma's back yard

Reese eating rain (yeah she's special)

Riley's big snail

More snails

EATING SNAILS

Cousin Joshy-wa-wa

Now that is ALOT of ice cream

Hiding after eating LOTS of ice cream

Grandma and Grandpa Sipes house

Raegan picking lemons from grandma's tree

Looking for sharks off the pier

Daddy and Reese

Sweet cousins (Riley and Sawyer)

Pimpin Riley

Maile and Raegan all dressed for grandma's funeral

The rest of these are at the Children's Museum in San Luis. The kids and I had never been to one. OH MY GOODNESS!! So much fun in one place. We loved it there. What a great experience for the kids.

And we finally got one day without rain so my kids were dying to go to the beach. Avila Beach.

In Memory NANCY ANN SIPES August 4th 1944-March 20th 2011

2011-03-28T13:49:00.001-07:00

Russ's mom Nancy passed away last Sunday. She was surrounded by all of her children. We still can't believe how fast she went. For the past few months she just hasn't felt good. On Tues. March 9th she went to the ER because of bad stomach pains. They did some tests and an ultrasound. We got "the call" on Wed. saying that she had terminal cancer. It was in her pancreas and liver. There was nothing that could be done. Russ left for CA on Friday after she was admitted to the hospital. Her liver was like a sponge and was collecting all of her blood. They pumped her stomach. At one time they pumped 2 GALLONS of fluid out. Then she would receive a blood transfusion. This continued for a few days. All she wanted was to go home. On Friday they finally sent her home. The kids and I got to CA on Saturday. I was shocked to see how frail she looked. Russ and his sister took turns all night Saturday waking up and pushing her morphine button. Sunday morning she was taken by ambulance back to the hospital to have her stomach pumped again. A half an hour after coming home she passed. Only 12 days from finding out. Super fast and so unexpected for her family.

Nancy was a wonderful person. She was such a giver. She LOVED her family. She LOVED being a grandma. She was the BEST mom, friend, grandma, and wife she knew how to be. She never claimed to be perfect but she always made what she felt was the best choices. My kids adored her. Raegan was her little shadow. Nancy was able to come to our house for Christmas the past 4 or so years. Those were great memories we have of her. Nancy was a great cook. I remember her coming for a visit and I thought I had nothing to make us for dinner. Well, Nancy opened my fridge and was able to make a complete dinner from what she found in the fridge. I can still NEVER do stuff like that. We have many fond memories of being at her home in California.
She was a very hard worker. She took her work very seriously. She only rested when she HAD to.

I am very grateful for the last 11 1/2 years that I have been able to know Nancy. I am grateful to her for raising a wonderful son that I get to spend my life with. This trial has made me realize that life is so short. We need to love those who are close to us. Forgive and forget. And be the best you can be. We love you Nancy and we will miss you.

A great picture of a great lady

2011-03-18T18:57:00.001-07:00

This is Russel's grandma Ann Ferguson. She was such a wonderful lady. She was TEENY TINY!! But SO full of life. She would order everyone around and she would tell you exactly what was up. She LOVED BYU football. I remember the first time I met her it was our 2nd date (I think) and he took me to meet her. We were going to the BYU game and she was watching it on TV. I don't think she missed watching even one game. How funny to she her SO involved in the game. Kinda funny actually. I am so grateful that Russ and I got to spend so much time with her when we first got married. She lived in Provo and so did we. We had FHE with her and her assisted living friends almost every Monday night. She ADORED her grandson Russ. To her he could do no wrong. It was really sweet to see the two of them together. She was a huge influence and example to Russ in his life. OH how I miss her. Love you grandma!!

Riley's first science project

2011-03-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

WOW our first science project. Riley did an amazing job presenting to his class his project. WE choose the disappearing eggshell. This project was interesting and pretty easy. The eggshell is made of calcium and when you put it in vinegar the acid makes the shell disappear. It makes the egg like a rubber ball. I was able to go to his school and see all the 2nd grade projects. They were all so good. I was super proud of Riley that he wasn't too nervous and he knew exactly what he was talking about. I guess that this means we have LOTS more science projects ahead.

She did it! She finally did it!!

2011-03-08T08:09:00.000-08:00

It seems like so long ago that we bought Reese her potty chair. We have been trying for a REALLY long time to get her to actually USE the potty. We tried everything. New underwear, treats, surprises. Nothing really worked. I thought after how EASY Raegan was to potty train and how HARD Riley was that Reese was a girl and would surely follow her sisters footsteps. WRONG!! Reese and Riley are identical in personalities. BOTH STUBBORN!! I knew I shouldn't force her or it would take longer. So we patiently waited for it to be HER idea. Well a few weeks ago I saw at a friends house (thanks Heather) that she had a sticker chart for her little girl. What an idea. Reese LOVES stickers. So I made one and TWO days later she was 100% potty trained. And she only wore a diaper for 2 nights and never peed in them. WHOO HOO!! I'm so happy. It is kind of a weird feeling going from diapers to worrying about if there is a potty close by everywhere you go. Way to go Reese.

UGH HOMEWORK

2011-03-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

Riley has been having a hard time getting motivated to do his homework. He comes home and only has two papers to do and it takes him 2 hours to actually finish them. Yesterday he would have rather take a nap than do his homework. AND HE HATES TAKING NAPS!!

OK in all honesty he does HATE doing homework BUT our family is on round 3 of being sick. Not sure how much more we can take. He wasn't feeling good yesterday when he came home. One minute he was doing homework and the next he was CRASHED. Poor buddy. He is a good boy (most of the time).

new card

2011-03-05T11:20:00.000-08:00

Have you seen my leprechaun???

2011-03-04T08:16:00.000-08:00

I remember doing this with Riley when he was in kindergarten. Now it is Raegan's turn to make her potato leprechaun. She asked me ALLL morning to help her. We got creative to say the least. He's pretty cute I'd give him my gold.

Silly stinkin Reese

2011-03-04T08:03:00.001-08:00

Where did this girl come from?? She is so so funny. She LOVES to dress up and play MOMMY!! I have caught her putting on DARK DARK lipstick, ALL OVER HER FACE!! Sure wish I had gotten a picture of that one. I love you Reesie Mae!!

Valentine craft

2011-03-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

These are the little Valentine's I made for the kid's teachers. I made one for myself too. I am slowly getting some fun decor.

Old picture

2011-01-29T15:58:00.001-08:00

We have been looking at some old pictures on our computer. I love this one of the kids. They look so little and so sweet. It’s crazy to think how fast time goes once you have kids. I wish I had cherished those days a little more.

A few crafts

2011-01-06T06:42:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things I have been working on lately. I made the sign for one of my closest friends for Christmas. I re-did Raegan's Book Of Mormon, because her other one got super ripped. And my card from last month (Christmas) and my card for tonight. Coming soon the pictures of the kids NEW switched rooms.

The "W" in Christmas

2010-12-27T12:04:00.000-08:00

I stole this from someone else's blog. I love it.

The "W" in Christmas

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I had cut back on nonessential obligations -- extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending. Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas. My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season for a six-year-old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's "Winter Pageant." I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation. All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.

So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform their song. Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial entertainment - songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer. So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken aback by its bold title.

Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads. Those in the front row-center stage -- held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song. As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas Love." The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down -- totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W." The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W." Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together. A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities. For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:

"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"

Christmas festivities

2010-12-13T14:03:00.001-08:00

I just love watching Raegan dance. She is such a natural on stage. She gets that from Russ. She gets a lot of things from her daddy. The ability to pick up on things so quickly and making them look so easy. I wish I could say that it is me--BUT nope all Russ--and I am so grateful. She LOVES to dance. This year she was able to be in the Christmas Spectacular at the town's 12 days of Christmas program. It was a lot of fun for her. She loves getting to wear make-up and getting her hair curled. She is just too stinkin cute. We just love her. *She is hard to see in the video. Her face is all white and that big black speaker is right in front of my camera. But she is the one in the front row on the far right. (the cutest one)

Gingerbread houses with Ninna

2010-12-04T21:41:00.001-08:00

We are so lucky to have our Ninna live so close to us. She is such a blessing to our family. Russ and I can go out when we need/want and we always know Ninna will be there to watch our kids. And love them as much as we do. But that is not the only reason we feel so blessed to have her. She loves my kids so much. She is wonderful with them. The girls LOVE to sleep over at Ninna's. She is soooo patient with them. Last night Russ and I were SUPPOSED to go out so Ninna said she would help the kids make gingerbread houses with graham crackers. The kids were so thrilled. They love projects like this. Reese was so fun to watch. She placed each little nerd and piece of candy in the perfect place. Thanks Ninna for helping them and being so wonderful. We love you.

I'm not tired

2010-11-29T10:48:00.001-08:00

So my Reese is convinced that she is DONE with naps!! UGH!!! She hasn't taken "naps" for about 2 months now. She doesn't really get super grouchy until about 5 or so at night. She will just veg out on the couch and watch a movie for about an hour which is really nice. One day last week my friend Sandra and I took Reese and went to lunch. She was perfect the whole time. When we got home and Sandra and I were talking she started getting fussy and whinny. Next thing we know she was CRASHED!! Standing up next to the couch. HAHA it was so cute. Once in awhile I guess I get lucky with a short little nap--hey I'll take whatever she will give me.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

2010-11-23T13:19:00.001-08:00

Today the kindergarten kids did their Thanksgiving program. It was so cute. Raegan's class were pilgrims. They did a poem. Raegan has been practicing that poem for a week now and has it memorized. All the classes sang two songs together. The last song "Under One Sky" is so cute. I remember getting teary eyed when I heard it with Riley's class. This year was no different. Raegan told me yesterday "Mom the last song is gonna make you cry." It did. I tell you what--I haven't ever been much of a crier BUT seeing my babies get big just sends me into a crying frenzy. It's awful. We are so proud of our Raegan and we love watching her be so big and learning new things.

This Thanksgiving day I hope that we all reflect on our many blessings and GIVE THANKS for what we have. Our family is so blessed and we can always be better at showing our gratitude.

Raegan goes to the dairy

2010-11-20T13:32:00.001-08:00

The kindergarten classes went on a field trip last week. They got to go the the Sunrise Dairy here in Snowflake/Taylor. I was very excited to get to go with them. It was very interesting. We saw all the mommy cows and how they line up to get milked every morning. We got to see the way they hook all the cows up to the milking machine. OUCH!! We saw how they put the milk into cartons and the huge fridge. All the kids got to have a chocolate milk. Then we got to see the baby cows and got to feed them some hay. It was a super fun little trip. These are the cute kids that were in my group--they are super good kids and stayed right by me the whole time.

Mr. Snowman

2010-11-19T18:58:00.000-08:00

Isn't he cute? I love how he turned out. The only bad thing is that he is too top heavy and won't stand up on his own. He has to be propped against something else. Oh well it works. He is made out of 2x4's and scrapbook paper.

Thankful Trees

2010-11-19T18:33:00.001-08:00

The kids had Veteran's day off of school. It was a LONG day. They all started to get pretty board and then they get naughty. SO I thought they needed a project. I cut some leaf shapes from my cricut. I had them paint a tree with only the branches. Then I had them write on the leaves some things they were thankful for. Then they glued the leaves on their trees. Riley was thankful for toys, family, army guys (he had just visited the Veteran's at the cemetery), and ice cream. Raegan was thankful for her family and that was the only thing she could write. Reese didn't write anything but she was talking as she scribbled. She said, mommy, daddy, sissy, brother, Ninna. It was good for them to do a project and it is good for me to hear what they are thankful for sometimes.

Proud to be an American

2010-11-19T18:19:00.000-08:00

Riley's class did a flag ceremony last week--it was the day before Veteran's day. The parents were invited to go and watch. It was so touching. It was a wonderful sight to see the boy scouts march the flag in and everyone stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance. I'm so grateful to live in a town that we are able to raise the flag and sing together the National Anthem in our school. What a wonderful experience for Riley and all that were present. It did bring tears to my eyes--I know I'm getting OLD!!

Raegan looses her first tooth

2010-11-10T15:39:00.001-08:00

Raegan has been waiting and waiting to lose a tooth like her brother. Her front two teeth have been loose for a really long time. Actually we are all kind of surprised those front teeth have lasted this long. When she was little she would fall A LOT and EVERY time she would bang those front teeth. There were a few accidents that I thought there was NO WAY they were ever going to be the same. BUT they made it. The dentist said last time we were there that they had hardly any root left. Of course she is super excited that the tooth fairy brought her a whole dollar. We think she looks pretty cute.

Riley's first piano recital

2010-11-08T10:24:00.001-08:00

My hunny boy is so amazing. He was SOOOOOO NERVOUS at his piano recital. Can you tell?? Look how he is sitting. He was so nervous he didn't even adjust himself on the bench. Poor little man. He seriously ALMOST started crying when he had to say his name and the songs he was playing. But he said he looked over at mom and that made him not cry. He played two songs--"Come To My House" and "Christopher Columbus". The one you actually hear on the videio is "Christopher Columbus". Yeah I pretty much suck--I couldn't find the record button until his second song. DANG IT!! He really does LIKE playing the piano. I usually never have to argue or fight with him to practice. He was just so nervous. I was so nervous for him BEING so nervous. I know how hard it is to get up in front of people who you don't know and have EVERY ONE watch you. Russ and I are just so so proud of him that he wanted to play and that he went threw with it. Way to go buddy. Our friend Sandra Carter came with us to watch and support him. After the recital we went to DQ for some ice cream. Everyone was calmed down by then and I hope it will be a good memory for him. Next recital maybe he won't be quite so nervous. I lOvE yOu RiLeY!!!

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

This is our Halloween in a nutshell. We didn't carve pumpkins until FRIDAY night. YES this is the longest I have ever waited to do pumpkins. The kids asked almost everyday if today would be the day. And they stayed paitent until it was the actual day. This is Riley's 7th year doing pumpkins and again this year he was totally grossed out by the pumpkin guts. It's kindof crazy. When I MADE him do some of his own guts he would wash his hands like 3 times. Too funny. He wanted a vampire pumpkin. Of course mom had to do most of the work but he was pretty proud of it when it was finished. Raegan is a trooper. She dug right in and cleaned hers out. SHE CARVED HER PUMPKIN ALL BY HERSELF this year. I was really excited about that. It turned out adorable. Way to go Rae. Reese was just happy to be there. While I was helping the other two she was trying to draw a face on her "baby pumpkin" with some chalk. I love her.

Costumes this year were the eaisiest and cheapest we have ever done. Riley wanted to be a vampire. OK easy--church clothes, black hair color, white face paint, and a borrowed cape--total of $3. Raegan wanted to be a witch. My good friend Cassie MADE her an amazing black and purple skirt, black dance leotard, black tights, black and green hair color, witch hat from the dolloar store, and fake eye lashes. Total of $3. Reese--well I figured that this may be the last year I can TELL Reese what she is going to be. Anyone who knows my Reesie knows she has an OBSESSION with Q-tips. She has since she was a small baby. They are like her binkie I guess. In fact she is holding one now as I type this. SO I thought it would be super funny if I could dress her like a Q-tip. She was MORE than happy to comply. She would tell everyone that she was going to be a Q-tip for Halloween. Her costume didn't turn out how I invisioned in my head but it was still super funny. Total cost--$1 for a stocking hat from the dollar store. Grand total--$7 for all 3 kids costumes. DANG that is awesome.

Our Halloween Party

2010-10-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a fun Halloween party. Everyone that came dressed up which was so fun. I'm so glad everyone came and had a good time. Russ is always the life of the party and kept everyone laughing. We will for sure have another one next year. Don't you LOVE Melindas costume?? So cute. It was perfect.

Halloween cake pops

2010-10-29T07:52:00.001-07:00

I made these Halloween cake pops for the kids teachers. I do try and SHARE stuff with their teachers because I really appriciate all they do with my kids. It is truly a relief to know that their teachers care about them and want them to do well at school. They both have wonderful teacher. HaPpY hAlLoWeEn.

Fun stuff

2010-10-29T07:25:00.001-07:00

I made this pumpkin and tree for some fun decorations. They are made out of 2x4's and scrapbook paper. Held all together with Gorilla glue. That stuff it awsome.

What little girls are made of

2010-10-17T21:28:00.001-07:00

My girls are SO fun. I am so glad that we have two girls right together. I remember playing with my sisters for HoUrS. Raegan is every girls dream BiG sIsTeR. She is so good to Reese (who in return is not always so nice back). Raegan has AlWaYs been a girly girl. She is very into dressing up and wearing make-up. I think Reese is following in her footsteps. The other day they wanted the make-up down. After they both found the perfect outfits *yeah you like Reesie's? That would be one of Rae's old dance costumes* The two girls had some fun with their make-up. It brought back such fun memories of me and my sisters. I love these sweet faces. You girls look FaBuLoUs!!

SoCcEr 2010

2010-10-17T20:47:00.001-07:00

Riely and Raegan are both playing soccer this year. This is Riley's 3rd year playing and I have to admit that he is NO better than the first year he played. BUT he LoVeS to play and be apart of a team. This year his team is the purple jets. He is usually ThE lAsT kid chasing the ball, and he takes his job as goal defender VeRy serious. He doesn't move from his spot even to get the ball that is coming straight at him. He got to be the goalie last game and he did very good and watched for the ball to come. I'm so glad that he likes to play and that it makes him feel important and needed.

This is Raegan's first year playing. Her team is the yellow stripes. Her coachs are Amber and Bob Threlkeld. She likes it OK. She doesn't like to run and she has gotten hurt at a game and practice so now she is a little worried about playing. She doesn't like getting hurt and she says "I don't like to play with the boys. They hurt me." SaD!! But she too enjoys to be apart of the team and knows how important it is to be there and try hard for her team. This last game she ran really hard and AlMoSt kicked the ball into the goal. Mel and I love to go and watch the kids play. And as you can see from the picture Reese just likes to be where ever we all are. She is really good to sit and be entertained while we are at the games.

Window of LOVE

2010-10-02T21:19:00.001-07:00

My friend was getting rid of this window and I took it and gave it some TLC!! It reminds me of President Monson's talk to the Relief Society sisters. He said we should make sure our own windows are clean before we judge anyone else. We should always see LOVE when we look out of our PERSONAL windows and SEE others the way our Heavenly Father sees them. It was a great talk and I will always remember that. It is defiantly something I need to improve on.

Peaches to Jam

2010-09-25T16:38:00.001-07:00

I am not a good canner. My mom canned a lot when I was little and I always liked to help. I have not done much since I got married. While we were in Utah last week we picked up a box of peaches and I made Jam. My first time with NO supervision. I have to admit it is kindof amazing to think that I took one thing and turned it into something else that will last way longer. I'm not a pro but I wouldn't mind trying something else.

Library day

2010-09-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday in Riley's class they went to the library. This isn't unusual. They go evrery Thursday. I noticed this year that he was bringing home chapter books every time. He has gone through 3 Goosebumps books. Well yesterday when he pulled out his new library book I almost hit the floor.

Harry Potter.....REALLY!! Look at that thing it's as big as him. I own the first Harry Potter book and he enjoys reading it. And he LOVES the movies...BUT REALLY!! That thing is HUGE. I'm not going to lie. I would never read that book. I told him I was so proud of him and that he was so brave for picking a book that was obviously way too advanced for him. I'm glad that he wants to challange himself. He LOVES to read, and chapter books are his new favorite. When we read at night I set the timer for 2o minutes. When the timer goes off he always asks for 5 more minutes. Who's kid is this? I'm very glad that he is such a good student and loves to read.

The wedding we have all waited for--Krystal and Justin

2010-09-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

WARNING: picture overload--for real. They were all so cute I couldn't choose!!

Halloween Blocks

2010-09-11T19:43:00.000-07:00

I don't have very many Halloween decorations. In fact, I don't think I have ANY Halloween decorations. And I love this time of year so today I got a wild hair and made these B-O-O blocks. I just used scrapbook paper on evey thing. The little critters came as punch outs with this Halloween paper pack. I like them and I am glad I have something to put on my table.

A new card

2010-09-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

Our card group took the summer off so I have not been interested in making any cards lately. But we are all anxious and excited to do our first swap in October. The theme is Halloween or Thank-you. I figured more people would use Thank-you cards so that is what I did.

Family Fun Night bOwLiNg

2010-09-09T07:24:00.000-07:00

We went bowling a few weeks ago for a friends birthday. WE LOVE BOWLING!! None of us are super good, except Russ, but we love to go. The kids are especially fun to watch. You can see in the pictures how excited Reese and Raegan were when their ball would hit even one pin. Reese would clap for everyone when it was their turn. We sure do love spending time together as a family. It seems with Russ working so many hours that our time with him is limited. The days we get to all be together are very welcomed. Russ killed everyone with his score. I would think that I would eventually get a little better, but NO I still stink. Mel got the highest score for the girls and she said, "I'm not going to do good because I haven't been bowling since Molly was a baby." I guess she had beginners luck:o) All in all everyone had a great time.

HaPpY bIrThDaY bAbY

2010-09-05T08:24:00.000-07:00

Russ turned 32 on Aug. 12th. We had a little get together with some friends. Russ LOVES dessert. I try and make his favorites for his birthday. He always asks for pumpkin pie and German chocolate cake. I also made him strawberry pie. YUMMY!! He doesn't really get too excited about his birthday. He got a new Sony DASH from Mel. It's a pretty cool little gadget.

We are so blessed to have Russ as our husband/daddy. He is wonderful. He is always doing what's best for us and works so hard to take care of us. He is USUALLY so fun to be around and we all love the time we get to spend with him. We feel so grateful for him and all he does. Happy Birthday Baby!! We love you!!

I'm in love

2010-09-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

As a mom I have a lot of days when I don't think anything I do is right or is worth much. BUT once in awhile I will have a day or even a moment when I feel like this is what I was made for. My kids are the best thing that has ever happened to me. I love them so much.

One of these days came on Sept. 1st. It was picture day at school. My Raegan loves looking pretty and having her picture taken (she did NOT get this from her mother). We were picking out her clothes and of course she wanted to wear a dress. So she picked her best one. Then she told me she wanted to have her hair curled. When she was already to go she said to me "mom, don't you want to take my picture?" OF COURSE I DO SILLY!! I am in awe at how beautiful my daughter is. It made me smile to think that she is mine and how lucky I am. She is so loving and kind. She is so sensitive and for the most part wants to help everyone. She tells us all several times a day that she loves us. She is such a joy. We love you Rae.

A YuMmY tReAt

2010-09-03T10:09:00.001-07:00

SO if you like peanut butter like I do, you will LOVE these cupcakes. I made regular chocolate cupcakes (devils food or a dark chocolate would be best). Then the AMAZING part. Mix 1 cup peanut butter with 1/2 container of vanilla frosting. If you need it to go farther you can mix the whole container with 1 1/2 cups peanut butter. Frost after the cupcakes are completly cooled. I just used chocolate syrup over the top. FABULOUS!!

First day of school 2010

2010-08-11T11:49:00.001-07:00

OK I know, I know, I have totally been a blog slacker. But there is no way I was not going to post today.

Back to school is always a bitter sweet day for me. I'm soooo ready for school to start again. I'm ready for my kids to be active and learning. I'm ready for everyone to be on a schedule again. Ready for going to bed early and getting up early.

BUT I'm not quite ready for my babies to be getting bigger. I really can't imagine that one day they will be going to high school. UGH!!! Riley is like a little mini man. He is so independent and confident. He pretty much thinks he is the boss--of everyone. He is also so very smart. It amazes me at how he can pick up any book and read it like it's memorized. AMAZING!! He must get that from Russ. This year he is going into 2nd grade. Last night Russ and I went and met his teacher, Mrs. Sims. She is wonderful. I really hope he warms up to her quickly. This is a big year I think. Not a little kid but not a big kid. Kindof in the middle. I hope he discovers who he wants to be and holds on to who he is now. Man he is so handsome.

Raegan is THRILLED to be going to kindergarten this year. It's all she has talked about since LAST year. She is so excited to meet her teacher Mrs. Slade today. She has asked at least 500 times if it's time to go yet. Raegan is also very independent and condifdent. But it is very differnent than Riley. She is more mature about her confidence. She KNOWS that she is a big girl and she KNOWS that she is a cutie pie. It is interesting to hear her interact with Reese. She is like a little mommy. Bossy when she needs to be but very loving and caring. She is such a good helper and plays sooo good with Reese. She has recently discovered how sassy she really can be and we are constently reminding her that she is beautiful but needs to ACT beautiful too. I hope that this year in school she will discover all kinds of fun new things. She is very social so I hope she learns more math and writing:-D

And Reese is just happy to be here. I'm sure she will love her one-on-one time with mom. We shall see.....

Little Buckaroos

2010-07-04T11:11:00.001-07:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!! We have been having a great week-end. Yesterday we got together with a bunch of friends and did some fun games, played in the pool and other water fun. Then we had BBQed beef sandwiches. YUMMY. Last night was the rodeo and fireworks. We LOVE the rodeo. My kids got all festive in their 4th of July shirts. And of course their cowboy/cowgirl hats and BOOTS!! It was so fun. The fireworks are always beautiful.

TOday, after church we are getting together with more friends for another BBQ. I can't wait for Mel's potatoe salad.

THANK-YOU TO ALL THOSE WHO HAVE OR ARE NOW SERVING OUR COUNTRY. TO THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES--THANK-YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE. I am so grateful to live in a FREE country where I can raise my kids the way I feel is right and I can come and go as I please. So grateful for my life, my family and my friends. LOVE YOU ALL!! Have a safe and fun holiday.

Riley's front teeth

2010-06-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Riley's two front teeth have been loose for a while now. They got so bad they were barely hanging on. The first one drove Russ so crazy that he got the dental floss and wrapped it around and pulled. Only he didn't have to pull it just popped out. Then the last top one started to dangle like a week later. Again we kept telling him to pull it out but he just wouldn't. Last night Russ was grossed out again and pulled it out. His new teeth are already coming down. I think he looks adorable with no front teeth.

More crafts

2010-06-25T21:46:00.001-07:00

I made these fun new crafts for my extremly long and bare hallway. I love how everything turned out. The hall looks not so BLAH anymore.

My silly girl

2010-06-25T21:36:00.001-07:00

Reese is such a funny little girl. Look at how she is dressed. No pants, onsie unbuttoned, Riley's shoes. She thought she was pretty cool. We just love her. She is VERY sassy and bossy but soooo loving. She is talking so good now. She says everything we say and more. Her favorite color is green. She calls everything green. She has counted to 10 and has been singing ABC's a lot lately. Love you Reesie Mae.

EFY

2010-06-25T21:29:00.000-07:00

We got to host some girls for EFY!!! WOW what a GREAT experience. In our house we had Linsay, Katie, and Ashley. At Mel's house we had Reghan, and Kaitlyn. These are such GREAT girls. We were so grateful to have them here. To see and feel of their sweetness and greatness was an awesome thing. Thank-you girls for being strong and such great examples. We miss them.

The end of T-Ball

2010-06-25T21:06:00.001-07:00

This was Riley's first year playing T-ball and he really had a great time. There was a couple of times when we had to force him into the car BUT once he was there he had a lot of fun. He really did a good job a batting and running. He wanted to be better at catching. But he sure tried. We thought since Riley is left handed at EVERYTHING that he would catch, throw, and bat left handed. Come to find out he bats right handed and wants to catch and throw right handed also. WEIRD. He figured it out and ended up batting right handed and catching and throwing left handed. We still need to practice some with him. We are all glad he got to play this year and hope he wants to play next year also. WAY to go StOrM!!

Riley turns 7

2010-06-06T10:59:00.000-07:00

Today is Riley's 7th birthday. Since today is Sunday we had his party yesterday. He requested that we do his party at the Pioneer park. It was a very nice day for an outside party. We took water guns and the kids all got wet which felt very nice. We also did a pinata and of course they played at the park. He wanted a Spiderman birthday. His cake was really cool. He was very excited to have some friends come. It's hard when your birthday is in the summer because so many people go out of town. BUT only 3 out of the 10 kids didn't come. Besides what his friends got him, this year he asked for a bike, a spiderman wii game and a Betta fish. We did get him a bike but not a spiderman wii game. Insead he got a cars and wall-e wii games. He was very excited. This morning on his actual birthday he got his Betta fish. He LOVES it. He named him Larry:-D Riley is such a sweet boy. He is SO smart and LOVES to learn. Russ took him out yesterday to ride his new bike. This is his first bike and it doesn't have training wheels. Russ helped him ride for about 30 mins and he already has it. He just needs to practice more. Way to go buddy. He enjoys playing T-ball and is getting better at hitting and catching. He for the most part is a joy to have in our family. We love him so much and feel very honored to be his parents. His sisters adore him too. HaPpY bIrThDaY rILeY!!! We sure do love you.

A redo

2010-05-29T20:11:00.001-07:00

Russ has been working ALOT of hours lately with the Police Dept. and Muddy Boys. That leaves me home alone alot. I have been getting anxious to repaint, redo, and clean up my house. My first project was our entertainment center. It is built in and I thought it would look good dark brown. I LOVE IT. I put the curtains on the bottom to hide all of the hideous wii stuff. On to the next project.

Bye-Bye 1st grade

2010-05-23T08:55:00.001-07:00

I really can't beilve Riley is done with 1st grade. I feel like the school year just started. This year Riley had Mrs. Taylor. She was a wonderful teacher and really pushed the kids to be ready for 2nd grade. Riley has really started to LOVE reading on his own. He has always LOVED books but now he craves reading. One day I had to ground him from reading--OH MAN!! He did 100% in all areas at school and we just can't believe how smart he is. He is a very likable boy and has LOTS of friends. On Thursday May 20th they had a little program at his school. All the 1st graders sang some songs and then we got to go to his class and look at all his work for the year. His favorite part of 1st grade was the field trip they took to Mogion Rim (sp??) in ShowLow. Way to go buddy. Riley is looking forward to a nice LONG summer break and next year for 2nd grade he got Mrs. Sims.

Preschool--NO MORE!!

2010-05-23T08:27:00.000-07:00

Well Raegan is all done with preschool. This is her second year in preschool and she has grown so much in the last year. She really LOVES preschool. I think she likes it more for the socializing than anything--but she learned a lot too. On Wednesday May 19th they had a little graduation program. They sang some songs and put on some short plays. Her play was the three little pigs. Raegan got to be.....A PALLET OF BRICKS!!! I know huh--exciting. Really it was a very cute program and all the kids were super excited. She got a book bag from her teachers and she has already been to the library to fill it up. Ninna, Molly, Hannah and Rae's friend Justin all came to watch her which made her feel very special. After the program we came home and had a small cake. She got a pretty star necklace from mom and dad and Ninna and the girls got her a bunch of paper and note pads and pens. We love you Raegan and are so proud of you.

I know, I know, I'm sick!!

2010-05-21T18:39:00.001-07:00

I have been doing lots of crafts lately. Last time I had my buttons out I thought, "Dang I have a lot of buttons." So, I dumped most of them out and spread them around. I had to take a picture. CRAZY!! I think I have an illness. LOL!! I love buttons.

More crafts

2010-05-19T09:08:00.001-07:00

I made these for Raegan's preschool teachers yesterday. I have to say I LOVE THEM!! It was really hard for me to give them away this morning. I thought these would be a good teacher gift because they can hang art work from the clothes pins. Raegan is graduating preschool tonight and has had these teachers for 2 years. They are wonderful teachers and we are sure going to miss them.

Printed my blog

2010-05-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

Today I had my blog printed into a book. WHOO HOO!! I'm so excited. This is what I asked for for my birthday and so I think I will have it printed every year on my birthday. I can't wait to get it back.

Teacher appreciation

2010-05-14T08:04:00.001-07:00

I always feel I need to thank my kids teachers at the end of the year. We have been VERY fortunate to have had so many good teachers each year. This year for 1st grade Riley had Mrs. Taylor. I think she is great. Riley really loves her. He has really been streatched and has done so well this year. His reading has improved as well as his math and writing. THANK-YOU Mrs. Taylor we think you're a star.

Raegan is 5!!

2010-05-11T18:05:00.000-07:00

Man, I just love this little girl. I seriously get emotional when I think of her being 5 years old. She is such a special girl. She is so giving and loving to every one she sees. She is smart and beautiful. She loves going to pre school and dancing. She is a social butterfly and has many friends. We had a little party for her on her birthday. Well, I invited 12 girls thinking only a few would come. We ended up having 21 kids all together. YUP it was very crazy. But she loved every second of it. She really wanted a tutu party. I was not sure on how to make a cute invitation for that SO I decided to make purse invitations. They turned out super cute. They open and the info is on the inside. Of course, she got many new and exciting things. Russ and I got her a new "big girl" bike. It is a purple Hello Kitty bike. SHE LOVES IT!! She is still trying to figure it out and has already had a scrapped up knee. She just gets back on and tries again. OK short story on the cake. I wanted to make her a pretty cake and had been running tons of ideas in my head. The morning of her birthday she said "mom, I want a pretty cake. So, can we go to Basha's and get a pretty one." NICE!! I do have to say they did have some pretty cakes BUT HELLO I can make a pretty cake too. Oh well, it was one less thing I had to worry about. I hope Raegan felt as special as she is on her special day. Raegan, I love you so much and I am so grateful to be your mom.

Dino Diorama

2010-05-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

Riley had his first BIG homework assignment. He had to do a project on dinosaurs. After he picked which dinosaur he wanted (he choose the Tarchia pronounced TAHR-key-ah) he had to write a report and present that report to his class. They also had to make (with some help) a diorama. OK I really didn't even know what a diorama was until he had to make one. It was actually a lot of fun to help him. His dinosaur was a plant eater and had lots of spikes on his back and sides. It took him awhile but he did a really good job on it. The hardest part for him was writing out the report. He would work on the words everyday until it was done. Way to go Buddy.

Meet our TWINS

2010-05-03T13:17:00.001-07:00

We have TwInS!!! Aren't they soooo cute? We love them. There is one boy and one girl. The "real" kids have named them Tony and Sophie. We were soooo shocked when we walked outside on Sat morning. We didn't even know our momma goat was pregnant. They are identical and oh so sweet.

My amazing kids!!

2010-04-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

I love my kids. They are pretty much the cutest. I had to take some pictures of them on Sunday all dressed up and looking amazing:-)

Speaking of amazing my friend Angie made this amazing dress for Reese. She made it out of a pair of teen size jeans. Isn't it cute as heck? She just made it up and sewed it together. I love it and so does Reese. Thanks Ang!!

Room make-over part 2

2010-04-23T18:40:00.000-07:00

I put these up today. I made the tile from my cricut. And I need to get some cute candels to go on top of the holders. It's all I could handle today. Being on the ladder makes me nervous. It's definatly a work in progress.

Fun Paper Flowers

2010-04-23T12:31:00.000-07:00

These flowers are so fun to make. They are a great way to get rid of any scrap paper you might have. For details on how to make them go to my blog list and click on Inspiration Nation. I have the details there. Have fun!!

Bedroom make-over

2010-04-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

My room is in need of a make-over. It should be the nicest room in the house BUT it isn't. It is very BLAH!! I have this amazing plant shelf right above my bed that I have done NOTHING with. My goal is to beautify it. This is my start--what do you think??

Reese Turns 2

2010-04-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

So I have more pictures but for some reason I have tried to download them to my blog 3 times and the rest will not go through. BUT here are a few pictures from Ressie's birthday. She had so much fun. I don't think she fully understood what the day was but she knew that it was all about her. We have a tradition with our kids that we put one gift out at night so when they wake up it's the first thing they see. That way they know the whole day is their day. She loved that. Later we had a little party with cupcakes and icecream. She had some friends come over. It was so funny--when we lit her cupcake to sing to her--she got so mad. She started crying and wanted Russ to hold her. Riley did the exact same thing on his 2nd birthday. They just don't want the attention I guess. Either that or she thought her cupcake was going to burst into flames. HAHA!! We got her a small pool. And when I say small I mean big enough for Reese and one other person. It was so funny to watch ALL the kids try and get in the pool AT THE SAME TIME!! We had a lot of fun!!

Reese for the most part is a really happy girl. She definatly knows who the boss of the house is and if you try to tell her other wise--watch out!! She has a BAD temper BUT a sweet laugh. She mimics EVERYTHING we say and do. Right now she LOVES playing babies and store with Raegan. She pushes her babies around in the stroller and the shopping cart. She LOVES juice, hotdogs, popcorn and candy. Healthy right?? Her favorite movies are Finding Nemo (which she watches almost everyday)and Move it Move it (Madagascar). She is always saying or doing something that makes us laugh. She loves her family and tells us all that she loves us. When I rock her at night she says, "mom, ni, ni, luv you!!" It is the sweetest thing. Reesie Mae I love you and I am so glad you are in our family.

T-Ball

2010-04-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

So, Riley FINALLY got signed up for T-ball!! Last year he really wanted to play but I some how missed the sign up day. Well not this year. I was the first person in line. On Friday he had his first practice. Russ or myself were unable to go--but Ninna took him and the camera so I didn't miss anything. Here are some high lights. His team is called Strom, he has a few friends that he knows on the team, and he is the ONLY left handed player. GREAT!! From the pictures he looks like he did a good job and when I asked how it went he said it was really fun. I hope he likes it.

Cards

2010-04-06T12:15:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple of cards I made for my card exchange. I think they turned out cute.

Wish they all could be California GIRLS

2010-03-30T15:40:00.001-07:00

My Raegan LOVES to dance and preform. On March 20th she had her dance review concert. It was awesome. All the performers did such a great job. I have to say she was stinkin' cute. Their class did their dance to California Girls by the Beach Boys. Russ got to go and watch her which was her favorite part. Also, Ninna and the girls came. It meant a lot to her to have her family there. She got some roses from mom and dad and Ninna got her some balloons and a ballerina figurine. Raegan is a natural on stage and never seems to be nervous. She got to go to the salon and get her hair cut before her performance--so mom could "flip" her hair out. She loves to get her hair done. We sure do love our California girl.

Reesie's BIG bOnK!!!

2010-03-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Reese pulled a kitchen chair up to the island to help Russ make dinner. We have bar stool type chairs--they are extra high. She think she can get up and down and back up again without any help. She is pretty good at it but it makes me so nervous to watch her. Well, she did it. She fell right on her face. Russ picked her up and I ran over to them. I instantly saw the blood--on the outside of her mouth just under her lip. Her tooth went threw her lip--disgusting!! I had to walk into the pantry and catch my breath. I am NOT good in stressful situations. Thank heavens Russ was here and is awesome in stressful situations. He told me it was a HUGE cut and needed stitches. I called for someone to sit with Riley and Raegan so we could take her to the ER. We have a clinic but it was already closed. I really didn't want my baby to have a huge ugly scar right on her mouth. SO after some thought and a few tears from me we decided to super glue it and just let it heal. I hope that was the right choice. Our friend Bridger works in the ER and had the "real" skin glue. He was more than willing to come over and help us glue her together. Thank-you so much Bridger. Today, Monday, it looks pretty good. She has picked at the glue and it is almost off. I hope it is healed enough it won't open again. I would have to pass out if I had to deal with that again.

I LOVE YOU REESIE!!

2010-03-05T08:04:00.001-08:00

My Reese is so cute. SHE LOVES SHOES!!! She insists on picking out her shoes every day. Then she changes them at least 12 times a day. If anyone takes their shoes off--watch out--she will take them. I had to get a couple of pictures of this one. Reese in her pajamas with Raegan's cowgirl boots on. OH she loves boots. If she sees someone else wearing boots she will always notice and say "boots".

She is also so into coloring, drawing, gluing. She will do that for hours. It is so cute to watch her concentrate on doing a good job. She mostly makes tiny little circles.

Yesterday when we dropped Raegan off she kept saying, "sissy, where's sissy" I told her she was at school and she got all sad. She said, "why, mom why" it was sad. Then I decided to take her to "school". On Thursday's at the library they do reading time. They read books, sing, dance and make a craft. She thought she was hot stuff going to school too. She was shy and stayed by me the whole time but I am hoping as we go more she will get more involved.
Back to the shoe thing. When we were at the library I was thinking to myself dang it her shoes are on the wrong feet. Because of course she had to do her shoes herself. I went to switch them and....yup two black Sunday shoes....both different....and both the same foot. NICE!!! I'm such a good mom!!! HEEHEE

Happy Dr. Seuss Day

2010-03-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

My Riley is just so stinkin cute. Yesterday he said to me, "mom I sure hope dad gets tomorrow off from the academy, because it's a holiday." I said, "I don't think he does, tomorrow is not a holiday." He said, "yes, it is, it's Dr. Seuss day." HAHA so funny. He was still convinced this morning while we were getting ready for school that today there was no school because of the "holiday".

HaPpY dR. sEuSs DaY--I hope you get the day off!!

Oh and I have to add last night when Riley was talking to Russ on the phone before bed, Russ asked him what was wrong with his sister? (Raegan was throwing a huge fit and screaming and crying because they were not being good so I didn't read them books) Riley said, "Dad, it is a nightmare you won't believe what happened."

One more funny Riley story so I don't forget. We had just finished saying prayers and Riley said the prayer. Right after that we called Russ. Russ answered the phone and Riley said "Dear Heavenly Father". We all were laughing so hard except Russ because he had no idea what was going on. HAHAH!!! Love you Riley boy!!

Reesie's potty chair

2010-02-19T16:58:00.000-08:00

I got Reese a new potty chair. She has been telling me she wants to sit on the potty for awhile now. When I would take her in there she would be really scared to sit on the potty, like she thought she would fall in. And she would fall in if I wasnt' holding her up. So we went to the good ol' Walmart and I let her pick a potty chair. It was a close tie between Elmo and Dora. In the end she picked Dora. She loves it. She will sometimes take it in the toy room and put it on the floor and sit on it and read her books. LOL. She has gone poopoo a few times and she always says potty. I don't think she is anywhere near being potty trained, BUT at least she has an idea of what to do. My big REESIE girl. I love you.

What good kids I have

2010-02-15T15:17:00.000-08:00

Last week I was REALLY sick. I didn't want to do anything but lie on the couch and watch movies. I felt awful, looked awful, it was just an awful week. On my second day of sickness I was at my worst. I told Riley when he got home from school that mommy didn't want to make dinner because I was too sick. He said he would do it. So nice of him. When dinner time came, he got ALL the ingredients out to make bean burritos. He did everything. He even got out the lettuce and tomatoes because he knows that is what mommy likes. He grated the cheese all by himself. The only thing I had to do was open the can of beans and put them into the pan. Raegan stirred them until they were warm. That was the sweetest thing my kids have done for me in a long time. ThAnK yOu RiLeY aNd RaEgAn what would I do without you???

Valentine's Cards

2010-01-29T18:47:00.000-08:00

I just finished my Valentine cards for our card exchange. I love how they turned out. This is one of my ways of stress relief. I have plenty right now:)

Craft how to's

2010-01-20T14:14:00.000-08:00

SO many of you have asked about the crafts I made. If you go to my blog list and click on Inspiration Nation. All the info on how I made them is there. The BofM's was done by someone else and she has a link on her details. It's a fun blog where I post all my crafts--and some other fun girlies too. Have fun.